USED Subaru Forester 4x4 (02 - 08)

My car

2.5XTE Auto. Awesome. The car's qualities are so understated that no short test drive will instantly win you over. But after each drive, this car defines an excellent long term ownership proposition - it just feels more right every day. I can now understand why Subaru owners stay with the marque. It has little image, one cannot brand it like other cars. It may look uninspiring, but those that know, know, that it's dynamically incredible. It drives impeccably at all levels: my mobility-impaired wife finds access easy, doors/steering/controls very light and the seats superb on long runs. For me, it's incredibly swift, so composed, applies its power without fuss and is quite electrifying (perhaps moreso because you just don't expect these abilities with this type of car). Can feel a bit woolly when you half-heartedly drive what you think may be swiftly, but the car is playing with you - take it by the scruff of the neck, add some corner speed, and it comes alive. Dealers v good, big discount on end-year 2006 model, first service £39, mpg 25 allround and got 30mpg on a long run with cruise set wherever poss. 1000 mile round trip to Scotland last week, fully loaded had no effect on the car. WhatCar review reads well and is clearly inconsistent with the star rating.

My car

Overall this is a good car, but it feels cheaper than the competition.

The interior looks dated and spacewise it's not a winner. It drives well though, and tackles rough roads with ease. The build quality is bulletproof.

My car

FORESTER 2.5XT What a fantastic car, can't rate it higher What Car have gone wrong on there staring of this car. (obviously Subaru do not spend enough on advertising) Ive had in recent years a BMW 328i Alfa 156 selespeed, clio 172, seat leon cupra R and this forester is faster more comfortable and better made than the lot. Go test drive one you will be amazed. Just wish I had a fuel card!

My car

We are looking for a family car that is safe, reliable and practical, but still fun to drive, so I took one of these on a test-drive. I think it is a brilliant car: You get lots of space, both for passengers and cargo under most "normal" circumstances (sure, if you have special needs, you might need a bulkier vehicle).

It has won several awards for safety and reliability - our prime concerns - but what became clear is that this is a fun car to drive indeed! While there is some body-roll, the car feels planted. I am sure this will only be more noticeable, when compared against other vehicles in its class, in bad weather conditions.

Where I think the Forester needs some improvement is in the cabin interior. It is comfortable and generally well designed, but it is looking rather dated. I hope the redesigned model - expected for next year - will address this.

The last comment I want to make is that I find WhatCar?'s review a very questionable one. I cannot understand how they have given this car a two star rating. I think the objectivity factor is lacking. Don't take my word for it: read other trustworthy reviews/surveys (e.g. the 2006 JD Power's - see the 4x4 category). Time to reconsider perhaps, WhatCar?